FOR those of us with the luxury of not having to be on our feet all day at work - which admittedly would not include many pharmacists - researchers have discovered the ideal ratio for sitting and standing at the desk.
The Griffith University-led study recommended 30 minutes sitting followed by 15 minutes standing (30:15), suggesting it could benefit all desk-based workers by improving focus, reducing stress and encouraging regular movement patterns throughout the day.
The study looked at the effectiveness of a prescribed 30:15 sit-stand ratio compared with participants' own preferred sit-stand ratio.
Participants were desk-based workers who had experienced lower back pain within the month before the study and already used a sit-stand desk.
Those using the 30:15 sit-stand ratio showed greater reductions in their worst lower back pain than those using their own personalised ratio.
"Both prescribed and self-prescribed ratios were effective at reducing lower back pain after three months," said study lead Dr Charlotte Brakenridge.
"However, those using the fixed ratio had greater reductions in pain and reported additional benefits such as lowered levels of stress and improved concentration."
Dr Brakenridge also commented that people found it easier to stick to the fixed ratio than their own random one.
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